This picturesque, hip city has something for everyone, from beautiful canals and architecture to fascinating museums and galleries. Enjoy coffee and culture with a city break in Amsterdam.

Nightlife

Amsterdam has a vibrant and eclectic nightlife, from traditional bars serving beer and snacks, to popular nightclubs such as the Escape, Club Home, and Panama. Trance music is really big here and attracts world-class DJs such as Armin van Buuren and Tiesto.

Jazz fans will love the live performances at clubs such as Bimhuis and Café Alto, while The Ziggo Dome caters to pop tastes, hosting big names such as Beyoncé, Lady Gaga, and Tom Jones.

Museums and Galleries

The city has a number of important museums and galleries that are a must-see during a holiday in Amsterdam. The Van Gogh Museum is the most visited museum in the city and contains a large amount of the artist’s paintings, including the Aardappeleters (The Potato Eaters) and Zonnebloemen (Sunflowers).

The Stedelijk Museum is right next door and houses the largest collection of modern art in Amsterdam by renowned artists such as Piet Mondriaan and Karel Appel.

The house where Anne Frank and her family hid from the Nazis during the war and wrote her famous diary is now a museum dedicated to her memory. The house contains her original diary, photographs and personal possessions and attracts many visitors so be prepared to queue.

Canals

Amsterdam is famous for its beautiful 17th century canals that run through the heart of the city. Awarded World Heritage status, these meandering waterways, scattered with sleepy houseboats, are a highlight of an Amsterdam city break.

Shopping

Albert Cuypmarkt is Amsterdam’s oldest market and popular with the locals for its tasty snacks, such as doughnuts, egg rolls, and stroopwafels.

For souvenirs, Bloemenmarkt, by the Singel covers all your tulips needs, and Delftware, the famous blue and white Dutch pottery, can be bought at Jorrit Heinen Royal Gifts and Collectables in the Munt Tower.

Pancakes and Waffles

Dutch pancakes are delicious, and an essential part of an Amsterdam holiday - try Pannenkoekenhuis Upstairs for favourites such as bacon and syrup.

Just as tasty are Stroopwafels (two thin waffels with syrup in the middle) that can be eaten fresh or bought packaged as souvenirs. Head to the vendor at Albert Cuypmarkt for fresh Stroopwafels made throughout the day.